4 Giant Trolls Just Landed in Iowa — Here’s Where to Find Them
Something big — and a little magical — has arrived in Iowa.
World-renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo has brought his larger-than-life troll sculptures to the state, creating a one-of-a-kind road trip experience.
These aren’t just sculptures… they’re massive wooden trolls, built from recycled materials, each with its own story and personality.
In 2026, four trolls are calling Iowa home — one in western Iowa and three along the Mississippi River.
Here’s where you can find them.
NOTE: We are not providing detailed instructions/directions on their exact location, as the project is designed to encourage you to explore, wander, and discover. We’ll let you know the general location and where to park. Happy troll hunting!
🧌 Fjord Ferryman in Elk Horn, Iowa (Western Iowa)
Location: On the grounds of the Museum of Danish America
Where to park: 2212 Washington St, Elk Horn, IA 51531
The 22-foot wooden troll installed in April 2026 at the Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa, is named Fjord Ferryman (or Fjord Færgemand in Danish). Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the sculpture is made from recycled materials and sits in a boat on the prairie, representing the journey of Danish immigrants.
The troll was created as part of a larger celebration of Danish culture and connects Iowa directly to Denmark through art and storytelling.
Like all of Dambo’s work, it was built using recycled materials and brought to life with the help of local volunteers — making it not just a sculpture, but a community project.
👉 Road trip tip: Pair this stop with the Danish Windmill and Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn for a full experience.
🧌 Helmut in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Near the Sawmill Museum
Where to park: near the intersection of Grant St and Main Ave in Clinton, Iowa
Clinton is home to three trolls, all tied to the Mississippi River and the city’s lumber history.
One of the trolls is located near the Sawmill Museum — a fitting location, given that these sculptures are built from reclaimed wood.
This stop is the easiest to find and a great starting point for your troll hunt in Clinton, Iowa. Be sure to also stop in at the Sawmill Museum to learn about the area’s lumber history.
🌳 Marvin in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Bickelhaupt Arboretum
Where to park: 340 S 14th St, Clinton, IA 52732
Another troll is tucked into a more natural setting at the arboretum.
Surrounded by trees and walking paths, this one feels like something you just stumbled upon in the woods — exactly how Dambo designs his installations.
🕵️ Warren in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Clinton Depot (you’ll have to wait to see this one 👀)
Address: 50-98 4th Ave S, Clinton, IA 52732
Yes, Warren will be located inside – at the old Clinton Depot. At this time, the building is not yet open to the public, but plans are being made.
🌎 Why These Trolls Are a Big Deal
Thomas Dambo’s trolls aren’t just art — they’re part of a global movement.
- Built from recycled materials
- Designed to connect people with nature
- Found in more than 20 countries
- Known for driving tourism and road trips
Communities across the country have seen huge increases in visitors after installing these trolls, and Iowa will soon be added to the worldwide Thomas Dambo Troll Map.
📍 Final Thoughts
This might be one of the most unique things to happen in Iowa travel in years.
Four giant trolls. Hidden locations. Real stories.
And a road trip that feels a little like a treasure hunt.
